LiVEMAX RESORT Kaga Yamashiro
6,9/10 Good - Based on 242 reviews
LiVEMAX RESORT Kaga Yamashiro sits within the Yamashiro Onsen district of Kaga as a recently refreshed onsen resort that blends contemporary comforts with local hot-spring tradition. Reopened after renovation in mid‑2025, the property presents a mix of public bathing facilities, an open-air terrace and sauna, plus year‑round pool options during the summer season. Framed as a ryokan with onsen in Ishikawa, the resort positions itself for multi‑generational stays and groups while retaining features associated with traditional hot‑spring inns.
Guest accommodation ranges from family suites to smaller rooms, and several room types now include their own outdoor tubs crafted from Shigaraki pottery fed by the local spring; select suites advertise private open‑air baths suitable for families or small groups. The property also hosts novel lodging concepts on site, including a male capsule area and container‑style “MAX CUBE” units, giving travelers a variety of room formats. For visitors seeking secluded bathing options, this ryokan with private onsen in Kaga, Ishikawa offers room categories specifically described as featuring private open‑air baths.
Onsite dining emphasizes buffet and live‑kitchen formats with regional seafood and grilled items, while the wellness programme includes massage and relaxation services alongside a public hot‑spring complex. The resort’s hotspring source is part of the Yamashiro system, a sodium‑calcium sulfate‑chloride thermal water noted locally for skin and fatigue‑relief benefits and reported source temperatures in the mid‑40s Celsius; day‑use bathing options and clear operating times are published by the property. Practical conveniences include multilingual staff, family facilities and easy road access from the nearest station, making it a pragmatic base for exploring the Kaga onsen area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: LiVEMAX RESORT Kaga Yamashiro
Positive Reviews
Quality and variety of onsen baths
Many guests praised the hot springs — large public baths and room open-air baths were enjoyed, with water temperatures generally pleasant and a variety of bathing options available.
Tasty meals and good buffet selection
Several reviewers highlighted delicious dinners (notably sashimi and crab) and a substantial buffet; breakfast was also described as tasty and satisfying by many guests.
Friendly, helpful staff
Staff were repeatedly described as kind, polite and accommodating, providing clear guidance (including some English instructions) and attentive service at breakfast and check‑in.
Good value for money
Guests felt the overall package (meals, baths and amenities) offered strong cost performance — many found the price reasonable given what was included.
Comfortable rooms and bedding
Multiple reviewers noted comfortable sleeping arrangements and thick futons; some room types include private outdoor baths that added to the comfort and experience.
Negative Reviews
Maintenance and cleanliness issues
Several reviews mentioned aging facilities and upkeep problems: mold in some bath areas, torn curtains, stains or cigarette burn marks on tatami/sofa, cold toilet seats, squeaky doors and broken equipment (e.g., bidet).
Poor instructions for room baths/drainage
Guests reported unclear or insufficient explanations for room open-air baths — one guest flooded the room when removing the plug and others noted rules and operation were not well explained.
Transport and accessibility challenges
The property is not very walkable from nearby stations for some visitors; the last local bus departs early, so planning is needed and some guests recommended renting a car.
Inconsistent dining experiences and extra charges
While many praised the food, a few found meals disappointing; others noted that breakfast could be an additional cost if not included and that premium items at the buffet can run out.
Occasional comfort and facility concerns in public areas
Issues reported include cold dining rooms, problematic parking spots (uneven/sinking areas) and other occasional discomforts in shared spaces that detracted from the stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary from twin/double rooms to larger suites; some renovated suites and new room types can sleep families or groups of up to 6–8 people. Please check the maximum occupancy for each room type when booking.
Yes — the resort has natural hot spring baths including indoor large baths, open-air baths and a sauna; some renovated rooms also include private open-air baths. Basic toiletries and towels are provided in the bathing facilities.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; typical options are a taxi (about a 30-minute drive) or public transport via Kaga-Onsen or Komatsu stations with a short bus or taxi transfer. Check train/bus schedules for connections to Yamashiro Onsen.
Staff can assist in English to a reasonable extent, especially at reception, but English proficiency may be limited for complex requests. It’s helpful to bring simple written directions or use a translation app for detailed needs.
Standard check-in starts from 15:00 (3:00 PM) and check-out is by 11:00 (11:00 AM). Late arrivals are usually possible if you notify the hotel in advance.
Some room types offer private in-room open-air baths for exclusive use, while the main onsen areas are shared public baths. If you need a privately reserved bath, ask the hotel in advance as availability and options vary.
No, pets are not permitted on the property.
Yes, the resort has an on-site restaurant with buffet-style breakfast and dinner featuring Japanese and local Kaga dishes plus options such as teppanyaki and seafood. Meals cater to families and include a mix of local and international choices.
The ryokan sits in Yamashiro Onsen with easy walking access to the onsen town and nearby Kakusenkei Gorge; Yamanaka and Katayamazu hot-spring areas are a short drive away. Kanazawa and cultural sites like Kanazawa Castle are reachable by train from nearby stations.
Yes — a convenience store is within a very short walk from the property, and free on-site self-parking is available for guests. Public transport stops and local taxis are also easy to access for day trips.